Making It Possible #4 – Mike McKinnon
In early summer 2024, I started noticing that something felt different. After spending twenty-five years Ukrainian dancing, the flips and tricks that had always come naturally to me, hadn’t felt quite right. I could still do them, but there was a loss of precision; a slight disconnect between what my body had always done effortlessly and what it was doing now. It was subtle, but enough that I knew something wasn’t right.
After several tests, doctors discovered an old spinal fracture that had healed improperly. They hoped that fixing it would allow me to return to the life I loved, being a husband and father to my two children, who are now twelve and fifteen, as well as my Ukrainian dancing. I had the surgery, which at first seemed to be healing well, but as 2025 went on, the weakness in my legs became more noticeable and everyday tasks became harder. More testing followed, and in the summer of 2025, I finally received an answer: I had ALS.
Hearing that diagnosis was overwhelming. There was shock, fear, and uncertainty about what life would look like for my family and me. My biggest concern was how this would affect my children. Over time, though, I realized that focusing on my family helped me move forward. We often use humour to navigate the new challenges that we encounter, and I was also connected with a support group for young men living with ALS. This helped me to remember that life with this disease is not only about loss. There are still meaningful moments, laughter, and joy, especially with my kids.
The ALS Society of Alberta has been an incredible support to our family. They helped provide equipment like a walker, wheelchair, and eventually a stairlift, all at no cost. Because of their support, I’ve been able to continue living in our home and keep my family in the community we love.
The Debi Lefaivre ALS Youth Champions Fund has also made a huge difference for my children. It has helped my daughter continue participating in gymnastics and enjoy a childhood filled with sports, friends, and cheer. My son recently started high school football and has built strong friendships through the sport. My goal is always to ensure my kids are the least impacted, ensuring they can remain in their sports has been incredibly meaningful.
My journey with ALS has had many ups and downs. From traveling the world as a performer to raising my children and now learning to live with ALS, I’ve come to understand how important perspective is. Joy is still possible and I want to make the most of each moment I have. More than anything though, I’m grateful that my children are supported, cared for, and still able to enjoy being kids. Although my life plans have changed, life is not all doom and gloom, it is still filled with laughter and joy.
